**Aviato: A Revolutionary Platform for Private Market Data**
*Aviato*, a groundbreaking analytical platform for private market data, is making waves in the startup world. Founded by Eric Zhu, a 17-year-old entrepreneur, this innovative startup has recently emerged from stealth mode with an impressive $2.3 million in venture funding. Aviato aims to revolutionize the way private market data is tracked and analyzed, offering a comprehensive platform that rivals competitors like Crunchbase and PitchBook.
Aviato’s unique selling point lies in its ability to track not only funding rounds and headcount but also a range of other essential data points. These include company credit card revenue data, employee vesting schedules, and even the current whereabouts of top engineers. By providing this level of detailed information, Aviato sets itself apart from its competitors, offering a more comprehensive and insightful platform for investors and market analysts.
Interestingly, Aviato draws inspiration from SignalFire, a well-known venture capital firm that has built an internal database with similar functionalities. Zhu revealed that Aviato has worked closely with SignalFire’s founder, Walter Kortschak, to develop its product. This collaboration highlights the potential of Aviato to become a game-changer in the private market data industry.
Zhu’s journey to founding Aviato began when he developed a keen interest in venture capital and startups during the pandemic. Through online Discord group chats, he connected with industry experts like Sam Altman, which fueled his passion for entrepreneurship. At just 13 years old, Zhu launched his first company called Esocial, a digital platform for schools. Within 10 months, Esocial was acquired, giving Zhu valuable experience in the startup landscape.
Subsequently, Zhu joined Bachmanity Capital, a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage companies with strong government application potential. It was during his time at Bachmanity Capital that Zhu recognized a crucial gap in the market. While existing data startups like PitchBook and Crunchbase excelled at tracking data, they lacked the analytical layer necessary to make their platforms truly valuable. This realization became the driving force behind Aviato’s inception.
Building Aviato was no easy task for Zhu, but his determination and resourcefulness prevailed. He even resorted to taking meetings from the bathroom stall in his high school, setting up a makeshift studio with a green screen and ring light. Although this unconventional approach resulted in his expulsion from school, it also brought him significant success. Zhu managed to secure high-profile customers like NEA, Republic Capital, and 8VC, solidifying Aviato’s credibility and industry reputation.
The impressive $2.3 million seed funding that Aviato received further validates its potential. Notable investors include 8VC, Soma Capital, and SoftBank. Eric Bahn, a co-founder and general partner at Hustle Fund, also made a personal investment in Aviato after being impressed by Zhu’s cold email. Bahn initially found the Zoom call with Zhu bizarre, as the teenager conducted it from a bathroom stall, pretending to have diarrhea. However, Bahn has since changed his perception, recognizing Zhu’s maturity and the quality of the product.
To strengthen Aviato’s executive team, the startup brought on board David Razavi, former CTO of LowerMyBills and former product lead at LendingTree, as a co-founder and COO. Additionally, Harrison Kessel, an experienced professional who played a pivotal role at Zeet, has joined as CTO. With a talented and dedicated team in place, Aviato is poised for success.
Zhu’s commitment to Aviato is evident in his decision to move to San Francisco and complete his high school education online. Although his parents may still be skeptical about his career path, Zhu remains confident in the potential of Aviato. With a growing customer base comprising venture funds, private equity funds, and more, Zhu envisions Aviato replacing industry giants like PitchBook. The future looks bright for this ambitious young entrepreneur and his revolutionary platform, Aviato.
